Are you finding your self drinking more often? That can be understandable in the current moment, as COVID-19 has raised everyone’s stress levels and has gotten more Americans drinking.
However, alcoholism is a serious issue. While many people drink to relieve stress, this shouldn’t be an excuse to overlook a serious problem.
If you’re concerned that you may have an issue, then it’s important to know the signs. Read on to learn four signs you have a drinking problem.
1. Drinking Often
One of the first signs you have a drinking problem may seem obvious, but it can often be overlooked. That sign is that you are drinking on a regular basis.
For example, if you are having multiple drinks or one large drink every day, then that could be a sign that you may be developing a serious problem.
You can test this out by trying to go a day or two without a drink. If this is hard for you to do, then that is an issue.
2. Hiding How Much You Drink From Others
Another sign to watch out for is if you are hiding how much you are drinking from others.
Think about it: are you not being completely honest with yourself and others about how much you are drinking? Do you drink alone so others can’t see how much you are having?
If the answer is yes to either of these questions, then this may be a sign that you are already recognizing a problem with your drinking habits, whether you want to admit it or not.
3. Choosing Alcohol Over Other Things
A sign that alcohol is starting to have an effect on your life is if you are choosing alcohol over other things.
This can be something minor, like deciding to go drink over a minor activity with friends. Or this could be serious, where you are choosing to drink instead of completing important obligations and responsibilities.
4. Being Unable to Limit How Much You Drink
Finally, one of the biggest signs you have a drinking problem is not being able to stop at a specific limit. Basically, what this means is that once you get going, you can’t stop.
This is a big problem, even if you can go days without drinking. While avoiding your first drink is good, if you can’t keep from having a second then you might be dealing with alcoholism.
Are You Noticing Signs You Have a Drinking Problem?
If you’re noticing signs you have a drinking problem in yourself or someone you care about, then it may be time to seek help. Alcoholism can damage professional and personal relationships, can hurt you financially, and can lead to you physically hurting yourself and others.
If the warning signs are there, then it’s time to make a change.
Are you looking for information on other subjects? Check out our other articles for more.
